Description: The impluse required to stop the system when striking the ground is applied to the larger and smaller ball equally. The smaller ball will accelerate faster since it has a smaller mass. Use this demonstration to discuss conservation of momentum. The following statement is from the package:
"The gravitational collapse of the dying star is illustrated by Astro-Blaster's fall to the surface. The shock wave accelerating outward through the star is illustrated by a wave of increasing speed as the result of the impact which is felt by the lighter balls nearer the top. The supernova explosion and release of cosmic rays is illustrated by the rapid departure of the top ball at high speed" - Stirling A. Colgate, Astrophysicist

Instructions:

Hazards: The package states that the ball will not blast unless AstroBlaster hits vertically. Ball travels at a high velocity, so be careful!